Born from an untouchable's impure womb, (they) made Brahmins and Vaishnavas their lords.
This couplet offers a sharp social commentary. It suggests that untouchability, a practice historically linked to the lowest strata of society, has ironically become so deeply ingrained that even Brahmins and Vaishnavas—traditionally revered for their purity and spiritual devotion—have adopted it as their own. It implies that these communities, instead of rejecting such discriminatory practices, have embraced them, effectively becoming the "masters" or upholders of untouchability. The verse highlights the pervasive and often paradoxical nature of social discrimination, where practices originally associated with the marginalized are perpetuated by those in positions of power or spiritual authority, exposing a profound societal flaw.
Interpretation note: meanings and explanations may be AI-assisted and should not replace a primary text or scholarly edition. See the editorial policy.
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